AP fileBaseball insiders are starting to question whether the relationship between Boston Red Sox GM Theo Epstein and president/CEO Larry Lucchino is about to unravel, SportsIllustrated.com reports.
Lucchino and Epstein long have had an uneasy relationship, but success has held them together. The departure of Manny Ramirez, whom Lucchino was committed to keeping on the roster regardless of the outfielder's behavior, may have driven the wedge between the two front-office executives even deeper, SI.com reports.
Most observers don't believe Red Sox owner John Henry will let the situation with Lucchino and Epstein devolve to the point it did when Epstein left the club for a few weeks in 2005. SI.com reports that Epstein likely would win any battle for power with Lucchino.
Lucchino could wind up joining Ramirez in Los Angeles, SI.com speculates. Dodgers owner Frank McCourt doesn't seem afraid of a little front-office friction, and Lucchino has a reputation for being difficult.
With Stephen Strasburg anchoring a strong rotation and super-prospect Bryce Harper on the way, the Washington Nationals are drawing a lot of attention.
CSN: Nationals phenom says he's OK if the team wants to start him in the minors this season, but he's planning to make their decision as difficult as possible.
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